Kamindu Mendis Stuns New Zealand With A Scintillating Century In 2nd Test
Kamindu Mendis Stuns New Zealand [Source: Screengrab@Sony]
On Day 2 of the 2nd Test between Sri Lanka and New Zealand at Galle International Stadium, cricket fans witnessed a remarkable performance by Kamindu Mendis. Resuming play at 306/3, Mendis and veteran Angelo Mathews continued to build on Sri Lanka’s strong batting foundation. Mendis’s unwavering focus and skill on the field were evident as he played a series of elegant strokes against loose deliveries, showcasing his growing prowess as a star batter.
The day began with high hopes as Angelo Mathews aimed to solidify his overnight score of 78. However, Mathews could only manage an additional 10 runs before being dismissed by Phillips. Despite this, Mendis kept the momentum going, forming a crucial partnership with skipper Dhananjaya de Silva, who contributed 44 runs. Their collaboration was vital in maintaining Sri Lanka's strong position, especially as the team looked to assert dominance over the Kiwis.
After lunch, Mendis displayed his exceptional batting skills, reaching a stunning century off just 147 balls. The pivotal moment came during the 125th over of the Sri Lanka's first innings when, with a single, he brought up his fifth Test century.
It was a full delivery drifting towards the stumps from Glenn Phillips. Kamindu Mendis elegantly flicked it to square leg, swiftly setting off for a single that would mark the achievement of his century.
Kamindu Mendis Makes History In Second Test
Kamindu Mendis's achievement goes beyond just a century. He made history by becoming the first cricketer in the 147-year history of Test cricket to score 50 or more runs in each of his first eight Test matches. This incredible feat was established on the first day of the second Test, where he notched his fifth half-century, cementing his place in the record books.
At the time of writing, Sri Lanka is at 421 for 5 in 125 overs.